Have have noticed some round, wart-like skin growths on people? They are known as skin tags. Skin tags are a very common skin condition. It doesn’t hurt, but sometimes it is better to remove them. If you are looking out for ways to get rid of skin tags, we’re here to help.

Health Shots reached out to Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist, and Dermato-Surgeon, at The Esthetic Clinics, who explained all about skin tags and ways to remove them.

What are skin tags?

Skin tags are tiny, reddish-brown skin growths that are medically known as acrochordons. Dr Kapoor says, “They are mostly benign and harmless but are frequently mistaken for warts. Skin tags have a thin stalk and rarely cause pain, infection, or inflammation. Skin tags typically develop on areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the eyelids, neck, armpits, under the breasts, and groin folds.”

Warts and skin tags are different skin issues

Skin tags and warts can sometimes be misunderstood. However, as distinct skin issues, each called for unique attention and treatment. Skin tags are flesh-colored growths on the skin, whereas warts are tiny, grainy bumps that resemble tiny black spots and are scratchy and dry to the touch. Warts are thick and deep, whereas skin tags remain on the surface.

Also read: Skin tags: Why do they occur and how to deal with them

Treatment options for skin tags

Skin tag removal is typically done for cosmetic purposes. Home remedies, which are not always effective, over-the-counter lotions, and surgery are the most popular treatment options. But skin tag removal should always be done by an expert. The surgical methods for skin tag removal include:

1. Radiofrequency

The Food and Drug Administration has approved this technology and indicated that the procedure is safe for a variety of uses. Some doctors advise radiofrequency as a minimally invasive method for removing skin tags. In this surgery, the surgeon will halt the bleeding and remove the skin tag by heating the area using radio frequency or waves.

2. Cryosurgery

This common technique involves the surgeon spraying an extremely cold liquid made from nitrogen or argon gas on the skin tags. The tag will get frozen as a result, and the skin will release it. It is a local treatment that can be used for specific parts of your body.

3. Electrosurgery

Simple techniques such as electrosurgery are used to treat various skin lesions, particularly minor superficial lesions (skin tags and small angiomas). In this, the skin tag is removed by a little electric current that is passed through it and heated by the current.

4. Surgical excision

In this simple method, the surgeon will use scissors to remove the tag from the base. This is carried out under local anaesthesia and is not appropriate for those with diabetes or those taking blood thinners. So, only choose this treatment after seeking the counsel of a specialist.

Also read: Get rid of warts with these 8 simple and effective home remedies

5. Ligation

With this technique, the surgeon ties a surgical thread around the tag’s base, completely cutting off the tag’s blood supply. Within a few days, the tag dries and comes off.

6. Laser surgery for skin tag removal

The tags are heated during this process with lasers in order to be removed. Laser surgery usually leaves a tiny wound that will heal. Simply adhere to the physician’s instructions.

Takeaway

Skin tag removal is a quick procedure that typically involves no downtime. All you need to do is that post-removal you keep the skin clean and dry. If the doctor has inserted sutures, heed the advice given and keep the wound dry. Treatments to remove skin tags are permanent where they are removed, and full healing takes about 2-3 weeks. But over time, additional ones can develop in other places, particularly if there is a hereditary history.